Vice President Sara Duterte (Noel Pabalate/MANILA BULLETIN)

Members of the “Young Guns” bloc in the House of Representatives expressed their disapproval of Vice President Sara Duterte’s remark that she will not attend the upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Marcos, declaring that she would be the “designated survivor”.

In a joint statement on Friday, July 12, the lawmakers questioned Duterte’s statement given her status as the Vice President and the potential impact of her words.

“The Vice President’s remarks about being the ‘designated survivor’ are both inappropriate and reckless. Such rhetoric hints at scenarios that are alarming and baseless, sowing unnecessary fear among the public,” said Isabela 6th district Rep. Inno Dy.

Dy emphasized that as a high-ranking official, every word that comes out of Duterte carries significant weight. He said such remarks can influence public perception and national stability.

On Thursday, Vice President Duterte confirmed that she would not attend her 2022 running mate’s third SONA on July 22 at the Batasang Pambansa Complex in Quezon City.

“No, I will not attend the SONA. I am appointing myself as the designated survivor,” she said in an interview with reporters.

While there is no rule in the Philippines in relation to a “designated survivor”—in the United States (US), the role is assigned to someone in the Cabinet who is required to sit out the President’s State of the Union Address (SOTU).

Since most of the officials in the presidential succession are typically in the same venue of the speech, a “designated survivor” would ensure the continuity of power should there be a catastrophic event.

1-Rider Party-list Rep. Rodge Gutierrez noted that Duterte’s “attempt at humor” is uncalled for because it could undermine the seriousness of the upcoming SONA.

"While obviously intended as a joke, it is quite inappropriate. The SONA is a serious event where we address the nation's most pressing issues, and such comments taken out of context undermine its significance and fuel speculation," he said.

In addition, Lanao del Sur 1st district Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong pointed out jokes about national security and presidential succession are simply “no laughing matter”.

“The Vice President should be setting an example of leadership and responsibility, not creating unnecessary panic,” he noted.

For his part, Davao Oriental 2nd district Rep. Cheeno Miguel Almario stressed that leaders like the Vice President should choose their words carefully.

“As the Vice President, it is assumed that every statement she makes carries significant weight and results from careful consideration,” said Almario.

“When she makes such remarks, it prompts us to ask: What message is she trying to convey? Is she attempting to influence public opinion, divert attention from critical issues, or create controversy?” he asked.

La Union 1st district Rep. Paolo Ortega  V likewise underscored remarks that are framed in “such a dramatic and fear-inducing manner” become a disservice to public service and solidarity.

“It’s imperative that our leaders demonstrate resolve and composure, especially during national events,” he added.

With this, Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Jil Bongalon urged government officials to focus on collective progress instead of so-called “theatrics”.

“Our focus should be on the collective efforts to move the country forward, not on distracting theatrics. The Filipino people deserve better from their leaders,” Bongalon said.

Following Duterte’s confirmed absence at the SONA, Zambales 1st district Rep. Jay Khonghun highlighted the importance of this annual event. He said it acts as a vital opportunity for all branches of government to come together under one roof.

“The SONA is a pivotal event where we discuss the nation’s future. It’s not the time for jokes or to shirk our duties. We need to be there, united, to address the pressing issues our country faces,” said Khonghun.